The incumbent operates independently and without direct supervision as the technologist responsible for the performance and coordination of all diagnostic radiology and CT examinations primarily on an off tour. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies so that proper diagnosis and treatment may be effectuated. Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Certification. All applicants must be certified in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT) (R). Advanced ARRT certification is required for assignments that include computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or Mammography (M) duties performed independently, as applicable. Advanced certification indicates that the incumbent can operate independently and has demonstrated specific clinical competency in the appropriate specialty and taken and passed the designated examination. In modalities that require advanced certification, to support their continued development, technologists who do not possess an advanced certification may be provided on the job training with oversight from a certified radiologic technologist. Education. Completion of a full-time training course of at least 24 months in duration (or the equivalent) in a post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program, evidenced by a certificate or an associate degree, accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) or from [other accrediting agencies as recognized by the Department of Education (DOE). Physical Requirements. See below and VA Directive and Handbook 5019. English Language Proficiency. DRTs must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d), and 7407(d). May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grandfathering Provision. All persons employed in VHA as a DRT on the effective date of this qualification standard are considered to have met all qualification requirements for the title, series and grade held, including positive education and certification that are part of the basic requirements of the DRT occupation. For employees who do not meet all of the basic requirements in this standard, but who met the qualifications applicable to the position at the time they were appointed to it, provisions may apply. GRADE REQUIREMENTS. Creditable Experience Specialized Assignments. Specialized areas of radiologic technology include general diagnostic radiologic technology (R), bone densitometry (BD), mammography (M), diagnostic ultrasound (S), computed tomography (CT), [ ] magnetic resonance imaging (MR), [ ] [interventional radiologic technology (IR)], quality management (QM), [picture archival communication system (PACS) technologist, MRI safety officer (MRSO), imaging administrator, clinical program director, and clinical instructor. Computed Tomography (CT). This specialty modality requires specific knowledge of cross sectional human anatomy and its application in spiral, and/or, multi-slice computer tomography, inclusive of 3-D reconstruction scans, including drainages, biopsies, and peripheral vascular examinations. The technologist requires specific knowledge and training in the location, appearance, and function of the various major and minor systems susceptible to radiological illumination; to interpret the examination request accurately; to understand the functioning and inter-relationship of the various organs; to use the methods and techniques which will identify organs appearing on the digital display monitor, or on film, and the various stages of the examination to judge the acceptability of the image and/or scan for diagnostic use and to emphasize the aspects of interest to the physician. [DRT assignments that include performance of independent duties in this subspecialty require advanced ARRT certification. GRADE DETERMINATIONS. In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-08 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Assignments. Employees at this grade level serve as staff DRTs at the full performance level. Candidates at this grade level must be qualified to independently provide services in specialized areas of radiologic technology and/or general radiologic technology services with only occasional oversight or direction for highly complex issues. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: (a). Ability to check system for operation and assess acceptable performance based on established guidelines. (b) Knowledge of calibration parameters and the ability to make adjustments as needed. (c) Knowledge of patient's clinical record, diagnosis, and laboratory results. (d) Ability to monitor patient's physiologic changes during the procedure and keep the radiologist informed. (e) Skill in using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy in dealings with the customer base, patients, staff, family, visitors, and volunteers. (f) Knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and cross-sectional anatomy, recognizing unusual images, and determining proper positioning to best demonstrate areas of interest. Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, GS-09 Experience. At least one year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates the clinical competencies described at that level. Assignments. For all assignments above the full performance level, the higher-level duties must consist of significant scope, complexity (difficulty), and range of variety, and be performed by the incumbent at least 25% of the time. DRTs at this grade level may be appointed to one of the following assignments: Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist. Employees at this level are fully functional as an advanced DRT and carry out their assigned tasks independently. DRTs at this level may have varying assignments including special and complex imaging procedures beyond the full performance level, clinical instruction, and basic QM type duties within the program. Regardless of the nature of the specific assignment, the work must be of sufficient scope and complexity to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at this level. The candidate must demonstrate all of the following technical KSAs and demonstrate the potential to acquire the assignment-specific KSAs designated by an asterisk (*): (a)*Ability to balance the needs of patients and staff while still performing complex scans and procedures. (b)Knowledge of techniques for gathering relevant information from the medical record, significant others, and health care providers. (c)*Ability to assess factors that may contraindicate the procedure. (d) knowledge of basic first aid and basic life support practices related to radiography. (e)Knowledge of physical assessment, aseptic techniques, intravenous methods and techniques and universal precautions. (f)Knowledge of pre-procedural, procedural, and post-procedural care of patients. References: VA Handbook 5005/119 PART II APPENDIX G25 December 13, 2019 The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is GS 9. Physical Requirements: Pre-placement physical examination to determine the physical, cognitive and emotional fitness of candidates for appointment in VA is required, and shall be completed prior to appointment, for all full-time, part-time and intermittent positions. ["Performs computerized tomography of the head, neck, spine, chest and body as well as angiography studies of the head, chest, abdomen and pelvis to include evaluation of pulmonary embolism and aortograms. These exams are performed with and without the use of contrast materials. The purpose of these exams is to achieve diagnostic studies to bring about proper diagnosis and treatment. Technologists of this specialized modality hold specific knowledge of cross sectional anatomy and its application in spiral and/ or multi-slice computer tomography and 3-D reconstruction. Technologists are knowledgeable in Computerized Radiography (CR) Direct Digital Radiography (DR) and Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS) Functions: Cat Scan 50% and DRT50% Schedules exams to be performed in a manner so as to optimize scanner times while maintaining flexibility for emergency cases. This requires the ability to prioritize patients as well as the ability to accommodate the emergency patient who may need immediate emergency surgery, etc. Interprets the radiological request accurately. Determines technical factors, positioning, number and thickness of scans, etc., to produce and satisfy requirements of CT scanning, emphasizing the particular areas of interest to the radiologist/ physician. Has the ability to judge the acceptability of the images and/ or scan for diagnostic use. Performs angiography studies of head, chest, abdomen and pelvis to include evaluation of pulmonary embolism and aortograms. The exams involve the use of highly sophisticated x-ray equipment such as computerized fluoroscopy, pressure injectors, patient monitors, etc. Prepares contrast materials that are used in CT/angiography and other radiology exams. Improper use or administration of the contrast materials run the risk of patient mortality and, therefore, it is essential that a thorough understanding of the contrast material usage is possessed by those who prepare it. In addition, must be continuously on the alert to the patient's condition and other disorders. Reactions on the part of the patient require immediate attention so that harm does not come to the patient. Performs reconstructions of both CT and angiographic studies when requested or as part of a standard procedure. Properly identifies patient's images, using left and right markers accurately. This is essential so that mistaken identity of patient images does not occur. The technologist must be certain that the patient I.D. band and the request are identical. Confirms patient identity by verbally confirming patient name and social security number. Performs diagnostic radiographic examinations on site primarily on odd tour/ weekends to include full 24/7/365 support of Operating Room procedures as needed. Will learn new advancements in general radiology and CT procedures and protocols as they are brought forward to meet patient care needs. Maintains BCLS certification. Maintains licensure/ registration/ certification in the field Other duties as assigned. Work Schedule: Part-Time, 12-hours Saturday and Sunday every other weekend. Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Position Title/Functional Statement #:Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT) (PART-TIME)/PD000000 and PD000000 Financial Disclosure Report: Not required"]
Providing Health Care for Veterans: The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,255 health care facilities, including 170 medical centers and 1,074 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.
